I spotted this very unusual black and white bumblebee in the garden yesterday. It was NOT at all co-operative about having its photo taken and the minute I got close enough to focus on it, off it buzzed, in a very fast straight line to the far side of the paddock. The nearest thing to it I could find was the Bombus bohemicus (Gypsy's Cuckoo Bumblebee) but I have just found some further photos and mine has no golden parts on it at all. I will update you when I find out what it is. Update: it "may" be a female Shrill Carder Bee - Bombus sylvarum (which has been recorded in South Wales). Yet - mine has a white rear end and the Shrill Carder Bee apparently has a gingery one . . . I shall try and send a photo off to the powers that be in the Bumblebee world . . .
This poor Dragonfly has hatched out in our main pond today, but looks to have one missing wing, and one which won't unfurl and it cannot fly. I suspect it will soon be dead/eaten, which is a shame. It must have been damaged inside the pupae.
Flowers from the garden today to brighten up the hall.
Above and below: my two dressers with some extra bits added (that includes Alfie!!)
First Painted Lady of the year on the Teasels - she was there much of yesterday and today too, keeping the piebald Bumblebee company.
Finally, a better sort of stir fry, with courgettes fresh from the garden, plus peppers, pak choi, tiny cherry tomatoes, red onion and mixed wholegrains. This one was allowed a small sprinkling of Soy Sauce to make it palatable.
Yawning now. Another early night needed.
